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Longquan Temple is located three kilometers northwest of Jinshan Town, Kalaqin Banner, Inner Mongolia, at the foot of Lion Cliff, 1,200 meters above sea level. Fifteen meters west of the temple lies an ancient well, known as "Dragon Spring," which boasts perpetual spring water, giving rise to the name "Longquan Temple."
Several ancient pines and cypresses stand in the center of the temple. The main hall, at the back, is three bays wide and surrounded by verandas. It features a single-eaved, five-ridged hip roof and a platform with carved stone railings. An incense niche stands in front of the hall. On the hillside to the east of the temple lies a grotto, 2 meters high, 2 meters wide, and 1.5 meters deep, containing two stone Buddhas.
The mountain gate is located in the middle of the front courtyard wall. It is nearly square, six meters high, with a five-ridge roof and four upturned eaves. The main entertainment activities now include: horse racing, archery, speedboat, stone viewing, desert camel caravan exploration, etc.
In front of the east and west side halls, there are two 3.2-meter-high stone tablets with dragon-head and turtle-shaped figures. The east one is the "Stele of Master Ran Gongdao, Abbot of Longquan Temple on Lion Cliff in Songzhou" erected in the first year of Zhizheng (1341). The inscription on the stele is clear, recording that "in the fourth year of Yanyou, Master Zhang Zhiran of Xianning, Anxi, saw this place" and said that "the mountains and rivers are beautiful, the scenery is profound, and it seems to be separated from the mortal world."
Temperate continental climate, suitable for all seasons
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20 yuan
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Chifeng Longquan Temple, located in Inner Mongolia, is a historical Buddhist site with a rich cultural and spiritual legacy. The temple dates back several centuries and has been a center for meditation and religious practice. It holds significant importance in the local community as a spiritual hub and an architectural marvel reflecting traditional Buddhist design.
Chifeng Longquan Temple is located in Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia. You can reach the temple by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi or a guided tour is recommended for convenience.
The temple is typically open to visitors from early morning to late afternoon. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. It’s advisable to visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.
The entrance fee is generally affordable, with tickets available for purchase at the temple’s entrance. There is no need for online bookings, as tickets can be bought on-site. However, if you are visiting during peak seasons, it’s advisable to check availability in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons, such as national holidays or weekends. For group tours or special events, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
A visit to the Chifeng Longquan Temple typically takes around 1-2 hours. This includes time for exploring the temple grounds, the main hall, and the surrounding area. If you wish to meditate or participate in religious ceremonies, you may want to plan for a longer stay.
Guided tours are available at the temple, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, though it's advisable to confirm this in advance. Audio guides may also be offered for self-guided tours.
The best viewpoints for photography are from the temple’s main courtyard, where you can capture the architectural beauty of the buildings against the backdrop of the surrounding nature. The temple’s roof also provides a great view of the area. Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photos.
Start by entering through the main gate and walk through the central courtyard, taking time to admire the temple architecture. Then, visit the main hall to observe the Buddhist statues and engage in any available prayer ceremonies. Conclude with a leisurely stroll through the surrounding grounds and a visit to any smaller buildings or relics.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at Chifeng Longquan Temple. However, it’s a tranquil place for early morning or late afternoon visits, which offer a more peaceful and meditative atmosphere.
The temple is generally not very crowded, but it can get busier during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
The temple has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or cafes on-site, but small vendors selling refreshments may be available. It’s recommended to bring water and snacks if you plan to stay for an extended period.
The temple’s layout includes some stairs and uneven terrain, so it may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. Children and families can enjoy the peaceful environment, but be prepared for some walking on uneven surfaces.
Cash is commonly accepted at the temple, especially for smaller purchases like entrance fees and donations. Some vendors may also accept mobile payments, such as Alipay or WeChat Pay, but it’s best to carry cash for convenience.
There are no significant dining options inside the temple. However, you can find local restaurants in Chifeng City, where you can enjoy traditional Inner Mongolian cuisine such as lamb dishes, noodles, and dumplings.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby Chifeng restaurants. Halal food is also commonly found in the area, reflecting the local Muslim population.
There are a variety of accommodations in Chifeng City, including budget hotels and mid-range options. For a more traditional experience, some local guesthouses may offer stays with Mongolian-style interiors.
There are small souvenir shops at or near the temple selling items like Buddhist artifacts, prayer beads, incense, and traditional Mongolian crafts such as felt products and embroidered goods.
After visiting the temple, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue your journey to nearby attractions or back to Chifeng City’s transportation hubs. Local buses may also be available, though they may not be as convenient.
